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Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates
Published on: January 30, 2014
Neurodegeneration: Microglia: Nf-Kappab Signaling Pathways
Aditya Singh1, Vaseem Ahamad Ansari1, Tarique Mahmood2
1Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow (India).
Abstract:
Microglia is cells of mesodermal/mesenchymal origin that migrate into the central nervous system (CNS) to form resident macrophages inside the special brain microenvironment. Intact with both neuronal and non-neuronal cells, microglia is highly active cells. Continuous process extension and retraction allows microglia to scan the brain parenchyma for threats. They are also able to change their morphology from ramified to amoeboid, which is a sign of cell activity. In response to pleiotropic stimuli such as neurotransmitters, cytokines, and plasma proteins, microglia express a diverse range of receptors. As controllers of synaptic activities and phagocytosis of developing neurons, they serve a critical role in the healthy brain and have significant effects on synaptic plasticity and adult neurogenesis. A frequent cause of hypoparathyroidism is a mutation in the gene glial cells missing-2 (GCM2). Neonatal hypoparathyroidism has an amorphic recessive GCM2 mutation, while autosomal dominant hypoparathyroidism has a dominant-negative GCM2 mutation. Curiously, familial isolated hyperparathyroidism has been associated with activating GCM2 mutation. In addition to seizures, neurocognitive impairment, carpopedal spasm, tingling and numbness are common clinical manifestations of hypoparathyroidism. Biogenic amines are a group of four neurotransmitters that belong to that category and these include serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Numerous antidepressants prevent the reuptake from occurring the brain-gut axis is hardwired through the CNS, enteric nervous system (ENS), neuroendocrine linkages and highly innervated nerve plexuses.
Insights
Microglia, active brain immune cells, scan the central nervous system for threats and influence synaptic plasticity. Mutations in the GCM2 gene cause hypoparathyroidism, impacting neurodevelopment and brain function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Microglia are resident macrophages in the central nervous system (CNS) originating from mesodermal cells.
- They actively scan the brain parenchyma and modulate synaptic activity and neurogenesis.
- Mutations in the glial cells missing-2 (GCM2) gene are linked to hypoparathyroidism, affecting neurological function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted roles of microglia in CNS health and disease.
- To investigate the genetic basis and clinical manifestations of hypoparathyroidism linked to GCM2 mutations.
- To understand the interplay between neurotransmitters, brain-gut axis, and neurological disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of microglia cell biology and function in the brain.
- Analysis of GCM2 gene mutations associated with hypoparathyroidism.
- Discussion of neurotransmitter systems and the brain-gut axis.
Main Results:
- Microglia exhibit dynamic surveillance and play critical roles in synaptic plasticity and adult neurogenesis.
- GCM2 mutations lead to various forms of hypoparathyroidism with neurological symptoms like seizures and cognitive impairment.
- Biogenic amines (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine) are key neurotransmitters influencing CNS function.
Conclusions:
- Microglia are essential for maintaining a healthy brain environment.
- GCM2 gene mutations represent a significant cause of hypoparathyroidism with diverse clinical presentations.
- The intricate connections within the CNS, including neurotransmitter pathways and the brain-gut axis, are crucial for overall neurological health.
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